How to Fix the Xbox 360 'Red Ring of Death'
Xbox 360 game consoles sometimes overheat and display three red lights on the system, known as the "Red Ring of Death." Systems that have been modified or opened are not under the Microsoft extended warranty for the issue, which leaves you to find an amateur to repair it or use the following method. This method is a temporary fix that can last up to several months.
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Instructions
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How to Fix the Xbox 360 'Red Ring of Death'
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1
Remove everything from the Xbox (hard drive, network cable, wireless network adapter and controllers) except the faceplate and power cable.
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2
Place the Xbox on one towel and turn it on. Wrap the towel all the way around it and continue to wrap the other towel around the system.
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3
Wait 30 to 45 minutes for the system to temporarily overheat.
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4
Unwrap the system, turn it off and let it cool down for 15 minutes. Do not place it in your freezer as the moisture could cause serious issues. You can place this near a window if it's currently winter. It may cool down faster.
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Turn on the Xbox in a well-ventilated area, and it should work until the next meltdown.
That should have you up and running again, but remember this is only a temporary fix, so we do suggest you return your system to Microsoft.
By superheating the Xbox 360, it causes the conductors to weld together a bit stronger, but with each towel "repair," it's bound to cause long-term damage.
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Tips & Warnings
If the Xbox system has not been modified, and the seal has not been broken, Microsoft will repair it for free. Have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of fire. No fires have been reported from doing this. After the system has been fixed using this method, keep it in a well-ventilated area, free from dust.
Watch the game system at all times to ensure a fire does not occur. This is s temporary fix that often works from two to four weeks at a time. Repeat the process after the "Red Ring of Death" occurs again.
- Photo Credit Elliot S. Volkman
